Living History
Living History organization of the United States Navy and Marine Corps portraying
sailors and marines as an infantry expeditionary force
during the Civil War.

U.S.S. Fort Henry

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Joining the U.S.S. Fort
Henry

A WANTED D

Men of Good Character
to join the United States Navy and Marine Corps
aboard the U.S. Gunboat Fort Henry

Like many other units
that portray the sailor and marine as "reenactors" of the Civil
War, our members find that these rolls differ considerably from
that of the Army reenactors. Following the course of the
original "Tars" of the Civil War, our members find themselves as
both infantrymen and artillerymen as well as well as
using slightly different commands, and a considerable difference in
uniforms, training, and equipment. Members have much more to do in
camp and have a lot to explain to the many spectators we see at
events.

Perhaps the best way to test if you are interested in
joining is to go to one of the events ([Schedule] > [Events])
and see us in person and in action. Unlike the Army units
which require a full uniform and gear to participate, the Union
Navy hired civilians as pilots and guides. Civilian attire
is an inexpensive way to get started almost immediately.

Families are welcome in camp, even overnight. As
the Union Navy was responsible for protecting Unionists on
various barrier islands around Florida, it would not be out of
the ordinary to see them in camp. Keep in mind that many
event hosts do ask that overnight family in authentic camp has
to be in period attire (again, inexpensive).

For those that may not want to"take the field" you have
the option to remain in camp for living history. This can
vary depending on your desires. Perhaps you just might
want to be seen in the role such as at work, cooking, maintainig
gear, etc., or perhaps you would like to provide demonstrations
and/or presentations.

Please feel free to contact any of our members if you
have an interest in joining. This can be at an event in
person, or as many of us use the internet, via email using the
[Contact] tab above. We can supply all of the information
and training you will need to become a Sailor or Marine in the
Union Navy!